In this episode of Misfit Behaviorists, we dive deep into the art of conducting thorough and effective Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) observations. 🎯 Learn why it’s crucial to look beyond the student on your radar and understand the behavior of the entire classroom. We'll share tips on how to blend in like a wallflower 🌸 and gather unbiased, comprehensive data across various settings and times.

Key Topics Covered:

• The importance of observing both typical and atypical behaviors in all students 🧐
• Strategies for making objective observations without influencing student behavior
• Using peer comparisons to differentiate between age-appropriate behaviors and behaviors of concern 📊
• How to collect detailed, timestamped notes that capture a rounded picture of the student’s interactions and environment
• Best practices for involving the whole team and considering external factors like medications, family vacations, and environmental changes

Helpful Resources:

• Printable Observation Forms 📝 – Grab your free set of forms to help streamline your data collection process.
• RBT Tracker 📊 – Stay organized and track your Registered Behavior Technician hours and tasks.
• Classroom Checklist 🗂️ – An observation and coaching tool to assess effective classroom routines and procedures.

Tune in to get insights on how to conduct meaningful observations that lead to more accurate behavior plans! 🎧

Last week's episode was on Conducting Initial Interviews. Go catch it now!
Next week will be Gathering A-B-C and Initial Data. Keep your eye out!

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😍 More, you say? We’re here for you!

• Apple podcast | The Misfit Behaviorists
• Instagram | @‌themisfitbehavioristspodcast
• YouTube | @‌themisfitbehaviorists

👋 Find us!

• Audra | ABA in School
• Caitlin | Beltran’s Behavior Basics
• Sami | B.A.S.S.

🖱️ Rate, Review, Like & Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode! Showing this love helps us get out to more educators out there!

In this episode of the Misfit Behaviorists podcast, Audra and Sami dive into the second step of the Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) process—conducting initial interviews. They discuss how to approach interviews with parents, teachers, and even the student, while maintaining a neutral, empathetic, and objective stance. By focusing on building trust, gathering comprehensive insights, and respecting confidentiality, this episode provides valuable tips for BCBAs looking to gather meaningful information and set the stage for effective behavior plans.

Key Points:
- Approaching interviews with empathy and neutrality, without undermining past communications.
- Importance of sitting “on the parent’s side of the table” to build trust.
- Tips for involving students in the process and teaching self-advocacy.
- Navigating sensitive information shared by parents and deciding what to document.
- Gathering insights from multiple sources (parents, teachers, students) to see the full picture.
- Reviewing past files, medical history, and academic records to contextualize behavior.
- Importance of remaining nonjudgmental, flexible, and objective throughout the process.
- The significance of respecting confidentiality and adhering to ethical guidelines.

Tune in next week as Audra and Sami explore the next step in the FBA process: conducting direct observations!

Join the Facebook group for collaboration and freebies: The Misfit Behaviorists

😍 More, you say? We’re here for you!

• Apple podcast | The Misfit Behaviorists
• Instagram | @‌themisfitbehavioristspodcast
• YouTube | @‌themisfitbehaviorists

👋 Find us!

• Audra | ABA in School
• Caitlin | Beltran’s Behavior Basics
• Sami | B.A.S.S.

🖱️ Rate, Review, Like & Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode! Showing this love helps us get out to more educators out there!

In this episode of the Misfit Behaviorist podcast, join hosts Audra Jensen and Sami Brown as they kick off a new mini-series focused on the Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) process. Audra and Sami delve into the importance of having a structured referral process, how it helps teachers, and why clear communication with parents is crucial. Discover practical advice and real-life examples on identifying when a behavior truly needs intervention and how teachers can effectively use a referral form to address challenging behaviors. This episode is packed with insights for educators and behavior analysts looking to improve their approach to managing student behavior. Don't miss out!

Key Points:
- Introduction to the FBA mini-series with Audra Jensen and new co-host Sami Brown
- Importance of the referral process in behavior support
- How to determine if a behavior is disruptive or unsafe
- Tips for teachers to identify and document challenging behaviors
- Collaboration with parents and involving them from the beginning
- Real-life stories and experiences from Audra and Sami’s work in schools

Join the Facebook group for collaboration and freebies: The Misfit Behaviorists

😍 More, you say? We’re here for you!

• Apple podcast | The Misfit Behaviorists
• Instagram | @‌themisfitbehavioristspodcast
• YouTube | @‌themisfitbehaviorists

👋 Find us!

• Audra | ABA in School
• Caitlin | Beltran’s Behavior Basics
• Sami | B.A.S.S.

🖱️ Rate, Review, Like & Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode! Showing this love helps us get out to more educators out there!